The vitamin C in potatoes acts as an antioxidant which can prevent or delay some types of cell damage.

They are a great source of potassiumwhich helps to lower blood pressure according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

B6 in potatoes is important in maintaining neurological health as it helps to create useful brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine. This means that eating potatoes can potentially decrease your stress levels and help with depression.

Serves 6 as a side dish

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Soak time: 30 minutes minimally

Cook time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

5 medium russett potatoes

2-3 tbs extra virgin olive oil

2 tsp cilantro

1-2 tbs minced garlic

1 tsp black pepper

sea salt to taste (I used Himalayan Sea Salt)

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degress.

2. Scrub, rinse and pat dry 5 russet potatoes.

3. Cut potatoes into 1/4 inch strips.

4. Soak potatoes in cold water for a minimum of 30 minutes. They can be soaked for several hours if placed in refrigerator. This removes excess starch which results in the crispiest fries!

5. Remove potatoes from water and lay on paper towels to dry. Also pat dry tops to dry thoroughly.

6. In a small bowl, combine cilantro, oil, garlic and pepper.

7. Place potatoes on 2 baking sheets. Drizzle oil mixture over potatoes. Gently hand toss to thoroughly coat fries. Spread potatoes out so as to not overcrowd and create a steaming effect…another key to crisp fries.

8. Bake potatoes in a preheated oven at 425 degrees for 30 minutes flipping halfway through cook time. Next increase the temperature to 450 degrees and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.